When you buy a car in Vermont, you’ll have some paperwork to do. If buying from a dealer, that paperwork will most likely be handled for you. If you buy from a private seller, it’s up to you and the seller to take care of it.

Make sure you secure the title, the bill of sale, and other necessary documents so that you can title and register the car in your name with the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Keep reading for more information about the paperwork you need when buying a car in Vermont.

Paperwork for Vermont Car Buyers

When you buy a new car in Vermont, the seller must give you ownership documents. Generally, you will need:

The vehicle title, signed by you and the seller, for cars up to 15 years old.AND

Buying a Car Without a Title

The state doesn't require titles for vehicles more than 15 years old. If you are attempting to buy such a vehicle, make sure that the bill of sale includes:

The vehicle's make and year.

The vehicle identification number (VIN).

The purchase price and sale date.

The odometer reading.

The seller's signature.

If the car is coming from a different state where it did not need a title, you will ALSO need:

An original or certified copy of the last registration.AND

Past bills of sale to provide enough information to identify the car.

If you are buying a vehicle that doesn't have a required title, you will need the original or certified copy of the vehicle's last registration certificate, as well as a bill of sale. Alternatively, the seller can request a duplicate title.

Required Inspections

The car will need a safety inspection IF:

It does not have a current, valid inspection certificate.OR

It is coming from outside of Vermont.

Out-of-state vehicles must be inspected within 15 days of registration.

Any vehicle up to 15 years old needs a vehicle identification number (VIN) verificationIF:

It’s from outside of the state or country.

It has a salvage title.

It is titled under bond.

VIN verifications can be conducted by designated law enforcement officers and DMV employees.

VT Title & Registration Paperwork

To title and register the car in your name, you’ll need to take the sale paperwork to your local DMV branch. Be sure to take: